Harlem Experience

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On this New York City walking tour, you'll see both sides of historic Harlem on this soulful tour that takes in the famous buildings, music icons and vibrant history of this cultural enclave. From the Apollo Theater to Harlem's African Market, learn about the neighborhood's famous former-residents as well as the locals currently calling Harlem home while visiting the popular haunts and world-famous sights that make this time worn New York gem so unique.

Highlights:

Unravel Harlem’s rich history with a local guide
See the glory of the Apollo Theater
Get spiritual at a Baptist Church
Step back in time while visiting the soul food kitchens of Lenox Avenue
See where Billie Holiday used to sing the night away
Visit a restaurant that gives back to the community
Browse the artistic wares on display at the African Market

Tour style:History & Heritage, Walking & Orientation, Local Life & Culture
Inclusion:

English speaking guide, bus fare in Harlem

Exclusion:

Lunch(approx $7-10) & Items of a personal nature, Tips or gratuities for drivers or guides

Group size:Maximum 12
Schedule details:

Duration: 3 hours
Meeting point:
Outside Apollo Theatre (under theater marquee) 235 West 125th Street.
Start time: 11.00 AM
Finish point:
Malcolm Shabazz African Market, 52 West 116th Street

Additional information :

Voucher exchange details:
Please present your voucher to the local guide at the beginning of the trip.
Confirmation of booking:
Please contact New York Urban Adventures to confirm your trip 24 hours prior to departure.
Dress standard:
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Moderate attire for entry into Baptist church. Summers can be hot and humid, spring/autumn can be cool, and winters downright frigid with snow. Dress according to weather.
Child policy:
Children must be 6 years of age to 11 years inclusively. Travellers below the age of 6 are not permitted on this tour.
Language: English

Itinerary:

On this New York City tour, you'll start your Harlem experience amid the bright lights of the Apollo Theater. This influential musical institution has seen performances from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday in the 1940’s, James Brown and Miles Davis in the 1950’s, Jimi Hendrix and BB King in the 1960’s and more recently, Stevie Wonder and the late Michael Jackson.

To this day, this musical icon still continues to foster new talent! Continue on to Malcolm X Boulevard and visit the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. With a knowledgeable local guide, uncover a proud history and culture demonstrated in the exhibitions and publications of this venerable institution. Afterwards, visit a Baptist church, the focal point of Harlem community activity and spirituality. While most lively on Sundays when congregation is in full swing, these churches still offer a glimpse into community life on any day of the week.

Continue the journey by walking down Lennox Avenue to see some of Harlem's hip jazz clubs and soul food restaurants, including Lennox Lounge where Billie Holiday got her start in the music industry. Imagine what life was like back when Harlem was a hotbed of political activity and musical talent. Visit a restaurant that serves as a local community foundation by providing hospitality training for young adults. Wander through Harlem's African Market, brimming with a vibrant mix of traditional African arts and crafts. Perhaps pick up a memento of your tour of Harlem.

Your trip:

This trip is offered on a "join-in" basis. Maximum group size is 12

Tipping:

If you are happy with the services provided by your local guides and drivers a tip - though not compulsory - is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it is of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid Urban Adventures destinations. Please consider this when budgeting for your extra expenses on this tour

Cancellations made more than 2 days prior to travel receive a full refund
Cancellations made 2 days or less prior to travel attract a 100% cancellation fee.

New York Urban Adventures

The New York City Urban Adventures team is passionate about this extraordinary city. Diverse neighborhoods, world renowned sites, amazing food, history, and all those little hidden gems that few tourists get to see, make it a great destination to visit. As part of the Urban Adventures network we are happy to bring this passion and local knowledge to you from the local markets and restaurants, side lanes, or from 70 floors above the city streets, on our unique New York walking tours.

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Responsible Travel with Urban Adventures

Wherever we go in the world, we take a responsible attitude with us. That means travelling in a way which both respects and benefits local people, their culture, their economy, and their environment. Please read on for more information on our Responsible Travel policy and how you can be a responsible traveller for your entire journey.

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